For those with an
interest in Scottish History, there are several castles,
such as in Tarbert itself and at Skipness a little further
South – all with fascinating pasts. For details and a brief
history of all the
castles in the
Kintyre area,
.There are other
intriguing artefacts in the surrounding areas – many
standing stones can be found in mid Argyll are well as cup
and ring marks – dating from the Bronze Age, they are
believed to be a prehistoric art form. Also worth a visit
are the sculptured stones at
Kilberry
and Kilmory Chapel.
CANAL
Lying some 12
miles North of Tarbert is Ardrishaig, the Eastern end of the
9 mile long Crinan Canal. Opened in 1801, it is a marvellous
feat of 18th Century engineering and is now the
responsibility of British Waterways. There are 15
locks and, to ensure a constant supply, it is fed by 7
reservoirs in the hills above. The canal largely follows
the route of the road and many visitors are surprised to see
yacht masts glide by in what appear to be neighbouring
fields! The canal towpath is perfect for a good level walk
or cycle and the small fishing village of Crinan at the
Western end has a cafeteria and hotel for a rewarding
refreshment afterwards.
WALKING / CYCLING
For the more
energetic, there are numerous walks of varying difficulty.
Many commence at the castle in Tarbert which is the
beginning of the newly opened Kintyre Way which runs
the length of the Kintyre Peninsula – a maximum of 103
miles. Additionally, there are numerous forestry and coastal
walks – many also ideal for cycling too.
BEACHES
South of Tarbert
are many beautiful sandy beaches, for example at West Point,
Machrihanish and Southend.
There are also
beautiful beaches on the Island of Gigha, a great place to
have a day trip from the Barfad Farmlands Self Catering
Cottages.
GOLF
Tarbert itself
has a 9 hole course with stunning moorland scenery and quite
challenging. Some 35 miles South lies the Machrihanish 18
holer in truly spectacular coastal surroundings. The opening
hole requires a drive over the Atlantic Ocean and the course
was redesigned in 1880 by Old Tom Morris himself. Also at
Machrihanish is the newly completed Dunes Course and there
is a 9 hole course in Lochgilphead too.
HORSERIDING
There are 2
stables close to Tarbert – one on the southern outskirts of
the village and the other a few miles north.
